The pupils, Katie Leonard, Maddie Todd, Madeleine Burwash, Hannah Warman, Millie Akerman, and Beth Matton, who are all studying GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition, were lucky enough to have a personal masterclass taught by Giancarlo Caldesi, restaurant and cookery school owner, and author of several critically-acclaimed cookbooks.

On the menu was authentic Italian ravioli, stuffed with spinach and ricotta and accompanied by a sage butter sauce, as well as home made fettuccine with a traditional tomato sauce. The pupils took no time in getting stuck in, and soon the pasta making was in full force!

The masterclass was a fantastic opportunity for pupils to learn new skills and techniques. Academic Principal, James Wilding, Head of Senior Girls, Margaret Heywood, Food Technology teacher, Kerry Irons, and the girls’ parents, were among the restaurant guests to enjoy the ‘cibo delizioso’ lunch the girls had made.

James Wilding, Academic Principal, said:

“I’d like to express my thanks to Giancarlo and Kerry for their inspirational work, and of course to the girls for their delicious pasta! I hope the girls will use the skills and knowledge they have acquired to encourage others to cook such amazing food from scratch, and continue the extraordinary revolution in food teaching and learning happening within Claires Court.”

Giancarlo Caldesi, added:

“In my restaurant, we only serve the best, and all the Claires Court staff and parents could taste that the girls rose completely to the challenge! I hope I’ve imparted a penny of knowledge to the girls and the school. I’m passionate about using fresh and seasonal ingredients as well as local produce, to create really special dishes.”